12 Foods That Strengthen Your Immune System

We all know vitamin C benefits the immune system, but foods rich in vitamin C also contain antioxidants. You don’t have to chug orange juice or OD on Emergen-C – leafy greens, parsley, broccoli, cauliflower, papaya, bell peppers, lemons, Brussels sprouts, strawberries, pineapple, kiwis and cantaloupe are all great sources.

Photo by Lily Allen

2. Yogurt

Yogurt contains probiotics, which are the healthy bacteria your intestine needs to keep your digestive system free of germs. Eat it plain or mix it with berries or granola.

Photo by Amanda Gajdosik

3. Oats

Oats contain beta-glucan, which is an antimicrobial fiber and antioxidant. Also, the protein in oats will give your body a much-needed energy boost and dose of fiber.

Photo by Christine Chang

4. Garlic

Okay, so maybe you don’t want to consume copious amounts of garlic (and if you do, please eat a mint), but garlic fights infection and bacteria.

Photo by Kai Huang

5. Black tea

Tea contains the amino acid L-theanine, which fights viruses.

Photo by Alex Tom

6. Coconuts

Coconut milk, coconut water or coconut oil – coconuts are rich in lauric acid, which is converted to monolaurin in your body. Monolaurin is a compound that strengthens your immunity. Not to mention the taste of coconut may trick you into thinking you’re in Hawaii.